Southern Way Residents Concerned About Proposed Sidewalk Repairs

Ellen Gilbert

Concerned residents of Southern Way took center stage Monday evening at the Princeton Township Committees work session to discuss a project for which a contract has already been awarded, with work scheduled to begin.

The project involves an effort by the Engineering Department and the Sewer Operating Committee to improve defective sewer laterals located along Cedar Lane, Southern Way, and Western Way. The plan includes the installation of new drains at the intersections of the streets involved in an effort to eliminate water pooling problems, and intercept water that currently flows out onto Harrison Street.

The real issue on Monday evening, however, was the proposed use of Belgian blocks when sidewalk replacement appears to be indicated. Primary reasons for opposing the use of Belgian block curbing included the cost to each resident, and the fact that it wouldnt fit in with the look of Southern Way. There was also some concern expressed about whether or not installing curbing would actually help to solve the areas storm water run-off problem.

Township Engineer Bob Kiser indicated that he would be willing to meet with individuals to discuss their respective situations and what can or cannot be done regarding drain-off. Mayor Bernie Miller also encouraged additional meetings with Township Committee members to get a quick resolution.

In other business, the Committee responded to Mercer Countys willingness to accelerate work to finish the Rosedale Road Bridge Replacement Project in four-and-a-half months by passing a waiver of the Townships noise ordinance, thus allowing work to begin as early as 6:30 a.m. and continue as late as 10 p.m. on Monday through Saturday, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

The Committee also approved a bond ordinance providing a supplemental appropriation of $2,500,000 for the rehabilitation of the Townships sewer system. The work will be part of a five-year project financed through the New Jersey Infrastructure Trust Fund, which is offering highly favorable rates (75 percent at zero interest, 25 percent at market rate) and, potentially, some Federal stimulus money.